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The Art of Audio Manipulation: Recording Arts Degree

Do you have a passion for audio in all its forms and uses? Would you like to be a part of an industry situated at the intersection of creativity and technology? In that case, a degree in recording arts technology can help you to make your aspirations a reality. Obtaining a degree in this field means expanding your knowledge of the various techniques employed throughout the audio industry. Whether you are interested in performing or composting, entertainment or business, a recording arts degree can be a big boon. Armed with the skills and knowledge you can acquire as part of your degree you’ll be able to take your passion for audio to the next level.

Recording Arts Degree Information

There are a couple of different degree options in the field of recording arts and they can be studies at both an associate’s as well as bachelors level.

Associate of Applied Science in Recording Arts

If you have an interested in manipulating audio or do anything related to mixing creating or capturing sound, then an Associate of Applied Science degree in Recording Arts can provide you with a good foundation. This course usually takes about two years to complete and include topics such as oral communication, computer technology, live sound, studio recording, composition, production and more. Some of the programs available at this level also teaches you about the business part of the recording industry.

Bachelor of Science in Recording Arts

Completing a bachelor’s degree in this field is useful for learning all the basics about recording, mixing and producing music as well as dialog. Generally you are taught all the fundamentals of sound along with music history and theory. Course topics can include critical listening, digital mastering, interactive audio, audiotronics, audio post production and vocal production.

Master of Fine Arts in Recording Arts and Technologies

If you would like to take part in advanced work related to the production recording and integration of electronic media in audio then a master’s degree is recommended. This type of degree will also help prepare you for teaching at a postsecondary level in this field. While most programs might require a previous degree in a related field there are also courses available where you can take part by first completing foundation audio courses.

Recording Arts Degree FAQ

Who Is An Ideal Candidate To Enroll In This Type of Degree Program?

First and foremost you must have a passion for sound if you want to get the most out of your degree and do well in this type of industry. In addition with being fascinated by how sound works, it also helps being able to listen to audio with a critical ear. Your problem solving skills are going to be vital and, just like many other industries, your communication abilities are paramount. It is vital that you are able to think on your feet and the ability to work as part of a team is just as important. A commitment to quality as well as the ability to pay attention to detail can really help you out in this demanding industry. It is a creative field where you not only have to be inventive, but also analytical.

Can This Type of Course Be Completed Online?

While sound recording and audio manipulation is typically done in a studio, advances in technology has meant that it is also possible to take part in the process using a computer. With the right hardware and software, such as decent headphones and microphones, a large enough hard drive and professional software, you can begin your recording arts journey without having to leave the house. Software that is generally used include Final Cut Pro X, Logic Pro X, Pro Tools and other. When taking part in this type of course online, check to make sure if the necessary software is included in the course or can be purchased with a student discount.

What Type of Career Paths Might Be Available After Studying Recording Arts?

A recording arts degree can help you to potentially qualify for a lot of roles within the industry. Many students who obtain a recording arts degree go on to become live sound engineers, location recording specialists, sound designers, music engineers, stagehands or post-production specialists. Careers in this industry spans everything from production to post production and engineering to jobs in industries as far-flung as film, television and video games. Audio is an integral part of many industries, so a recording arts degree can expand your career prospects beyond just music, for example the field of audio forensics specialists. Finally, since many programs in recording arts also includes business courses, there are many who take the entrepreneurial route and create their own audio-related businesses.

What Type of Responsibilities Might I Have When Working In This Industry?

The type of responsibilities you might have when working in the field of recording arts will depend on your career choice as well as the industry in which you work. For example, when working as a sound engineering technician you might be required to do anything from producing sound effects for television broadcasts to enhancing dialog quality. On the other hand, sound engineering technicians working in the music industry perform tasks such as regulating volume levels during recording sessions or mixing together tracks.

How Much Can I Potentially Earn When Working In The Recording Arts Industry?

There are a couple of different career paths within the recording arts industry, each with their own median salaries. For example, when working as a sound engineering technician you could potentially earn about $53,330 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics based on their figures for 2015. However, even in this occupation the type of industry can influence your annual mean wage as those working in the motion picture and video industries typically earning more than those working at performing arts companies for example. Broadcast technicians earn a median wage of about $37,490 annually according to BLS, with motion picture and video industries once again being the top paying.